Chongqingnan Railway Station

ChongqingPeople's Republic of China 29° N · 106° E Updated Jun 2025

Chongqingnan Railway Station, also known as Chongqing South Railway Station (重庆南站), stands as a pivotal gateway in western China’s vast rail network and urban…

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Introduction

Chongqingnan Railway Station, also known as Chongqing South Railway Station (重庆南站), is a landmark in western China’s rail network and urban landscape. Since its opening in 1952, the station has evolved from a hub for conventional rail into a modern, multi-modal transportation center, integrating high-speed rail, metro, and comprehensive passenger amenities. As Chongqing, a megacity with over 32 million residents, continues its rapid development, Chongqingnan stands as both a symbol of its railway heritage and a testament to ambitious modernization (Sohu; iChongqing).

This detailed guide offers everything you need to know for visiting or transiting through Chongqingnan Railway Station: up-to-date visiting hours, ticketing procedures, accessibility features, travel tips, nearby attractions, and insights into the station's ongoing transformation.

Chongqingnan first opened in 1952 to address the growing transportation needs of Chongqing and the wider Sichuan Basin. It became the city’s main rail gateway, supporting economic growth and urban expansion. Its reputation as a site of emotional reunions and farewells is deeply embedded in local culture, and its architecture evokes nostalgia for generations of Chongqing residents (Sohu).

With the arrival of high-speed rail, Chongqingnan's role shifted, but it retained its unique place as the departure point for beloved “slow trains,” connecting travelers to scenic towns like Baisha Ancient Town and Tongguanyi (Sohu). The station’s presence continues to shape Chongqing’s urban identity and transport history.

Station Layout and Architectural Highlights

Architectural Design

Chongqingnan Railway Station’s architecture harmonizes with the city’s mountainous landscape. Notable features include:

  • Water-drop skylights and tree-shaped pillars providing abundant natural light (iChongqing).
  • Expansive glass curtain walls offering panoramic city views.
  • Multi-level spatial organization, with escalators, elevators, and ramps accommodating elevation changes (Academia.edu).

The station spans approximately 1,220,000 square meters, with 15 platforms and 29 tracks—making it the largest high-speed railway station in western China (ECNS).

Passenger Flow

  • Wide concourses and multiple entry points ensure smooth movement, even during peak hours.
  • Digital signage and multilingual announcements enhance wayfinding for domestic and international travelers.

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

  • Visiting Hours Normally, Chongqingnan Railway Station operates daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. However, as of June 15, 2025, passenger services are temporarily suspended for modernization. The station exterior remains accessible for sightseeing during daylight hours (Sohu).
  • Ticketing During normal operation, tickets can be purchased at staffed counters, automated kiosks, or online through official websites and mobile apps (TravelChinaGuide). Multiple payment methods are supported, including cash, bank cards, Alipay, and WeChat Pay.
  • Advance Booking Booking in advance is strongly advised during peak seasons (e.g., Chinese New Year, National Day holidays).

Facilities and Services

  • Waiting Areas Spacious halls with comfortable seating, charging stations, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Lounges VIP and business-class lounges offer refreshments, private restrooms, and dedicated boarding.
  • Dining and Retail A variety of local and international food options, convenience stores, bookstores, souvenir shops, and pharmacies.
  • Family Zones Designated play areas for children.
  • Security Advanced surveillance, baggage screening, and first-aid stations ensure passenger safety.
  • Green Features Energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and intelligent climate controls save over 6 million kWh annually and reduce carbon emissions (iChongqing).

Accessibility Features

Chongqingnan Railway Station is designed for universal access:

  • Barrier-free entrances and tactile paving for the visually impaired.
  • Elevators and ramps for wheelchair users.
  • Accessible restrooms and priority seating.
  • Staff assistance available on request (Academia.edu).

Intermodal Connectivity

  • Metro Direct connections to CRT Lines 1 and 3; future expansions will integrate Lines 6, 8, 24, and 27 (Wikipedia).
  • Bus Multiple city bus routes serve the station.
  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing Readily available at designated exits.
  • Airport Access CRT Line 3 provides direct access to Jiangbei International Airport.

Dedicated transfer halls and digital signage guide travelers between transport modes. Ample parking is available for private vehicles.

Nearby Attractions

Chongqingnan's prime location offers quick access to major city highlights:

  • Nan’an Riverside Park Ideal for riverside strolls.
  • Ciqikou Ancient Town A well-preserved historic area with traditional architecture, tea houses, and handicrafts.
  • Jiefangbei Central Business District Chongqing’s commercial heart, known for shopping and nightlife.
  • Yangtze River Cableway Offers panoramic views of the city and river (World of Metro).

Travel Tips

  • Arrive Early Allow at least 45 minutes for security and ticket checks, especially during peak times.
  • Use Metro CRT lines are the most efficient way to reach the station and city center.
  • Signage Both Chinese and English are available throughout the station.
  • Photography The station’s skylights and panoramic windows make for excellent photo opportunities.
  • Stay Informed Check official websites or the Audiala app for real-time updates, schedules, and service advisories.

Current Operations and Service Suspension

As of June 15, 2025, Chongqingnan Railway Station’s passenger services are temporarily suspended due to the modernization of the Chengdu-Chongqing Railway’s Chongqing-Jiangjin section (Sohu). The iconic “slow train” 5612/5611 now departs from Jiangjin Station. Visitors can still explore the station exterior and its architecture; for train travel, use Chongqingbei or Chongqingxi stations.

Future Developments

Chongqingnan’s ongoing transformation is part of a city-wide modernization program:

  • Platform Expansion Increased capacity for high-speed and conventional trains.
  • Urban Regeneration Integration with commercial, residential, and green spaces to create a vibrant district.
  • Sustainability Enhanced green building features and digital infrastructure.
  • Accessibility Prioritization of barrier-free design and multilingual services (Audiala).

These upgrades will reinforce Chongqingnan’s status as a key transit and cultural hub.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the current visiting hours at Chongqingnan Railway Station?
A: Due to renovation, passenger services are suspended; the station exterior can be visited during daylight.

Q: Where can I buy train tickets in Chongqing?
A: Tickets are available at Chongqingbei and Chongqingxi stations, as well as online via official platforms (TravelChinaGuide).

Q: Is the station accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, Chongqingnan is fully accessible with elevators, tactile paving, and staff assistance.

Q: What are the best nearby attractions?
A: Ciqikou Ancient Town, Nan’an Riverside Park, Jiefangbei CBD, and the Yangtze River Cableway.

Q: How can I reach the station?
A: By metro (CRT), bus, taxi, or ride-sharing services; confirm schedules due to ongoing construction.

Visual Highlights

  • Exterior view of Chongqingnan’s skylit facade (alt: Chongqingnan Railway Station exterior)
  • Interior panorama of waiting lounges and ticketing halls (alt: Chongqingnan Railway Station waiting area)
  • Map of station layout and nearby metro lines
  • Images of Ciqikou Ancient Town and Nan’an Riverside Park